Shepherds and sheep flocks are an indispensable part of the world’s wool. Often overlooked, they are essential to biodiversity and the preservation of our natural landscapes.
To raise awareness of mobile sheep flocks and the people dedicated to caring for them, a group of shepherding advocates is organising a march from the northern Dutch Island of Texel to the European Parliament in Brussels.
Scheduled to start at the end of August, the 450 km Wool March is the brainchild of designer, researcher, and shepherding advocate Cynthia Hathaway.
For the Future of Shepherds, Flocks and Their Wool
The Wool March aims to alert the public to the vibrant cultural heritage of sheep farming and shepherding. Mobile flocks in particular have been an integral part of many cultures around the world. Yet they are at serious risk of disappearing. With them would go not only the culture and way of life, but also the biodiversity and health of the natural landscapes to which they contribute.
Over the course of the Wool March, the stories, conversations and encounters that take place will be recorded in a journal, Reports From the Pasture. This document will be presented, along with a shepherd’s declaration, to members of the European Parliament in Brussels. The shepherd’s declaration outlines the steps that need to be taken to protect this cultural and natural heritage.
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Walking for Change
Participants, including shepherds and their herds, are not expected to cover the entire 450 km. Instead, the Wool March is planned as a relay, with each shepherd handing over the baton to the next. Beginning at Texel, the March will crisscross the Netherlands before meeting with German and Belgian shepherds at the border. It will then continue until it reaches the European Parliament.
The Wool March begins in Texel the last week of August, reaching Brussels October 13th, 2026.
Check the official website for route details.
To support participants in making the Wool March, contributions are welcome! Visit the official website to learn how you can help.
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